ARTICLE
When the Storm Ends, the Real Threat Begins Storms move fast. But the damage they leave behind can last for years, especially when shady roofers step in. Across Texas, hail, hurricanes, and tornadoes are more than seasonal inconveniences. They create an open door for opportunists: unqualified contractors who see desperate homeowners as easy targets. That danger is magnified by the fact that Texas has no state-required licensing or registration for roofing contractors. Anyone can claim to be a roofer, and that lack of oversight puts homeowners at serious risk. This blog will break down the essential facts about Texas roofing laws, including how to avoid scams, understand your rights, and make smart hiring decisions. If you're a homeowner in Texas, these insights could save you thousands of dollars and help protect your home. Why Roofing Laws Matter in Texas Texas leads the nation in severe weather events that impact homes, especially the roof. From Gulf Coast hurricanes to Hill Country flooding, Texas faces regular disasters that cause immense property damage and, tragically, loss of life. In 2025, AccuWeather estimated the economic toll of the Hill Country floods at over $18 billion. But even worse, these events often attract opportunists who exploit vulnerable homeowners in the aftermath. However, unlike other trades in Texas, such as electricians, plumbers, or even barbers, roofers are not required to be licensed by the state. There is no standard test, no insurance verification, no registration, and no code of conduct enforced at the state level. This creates a major gap in consumer protection. When laws do not require roofers to meet a baseline of professional accountability, homeowners have to rely entirely on their own judgment. That is a dangerous situation in a high-pressure, post-storm environment when you are vulnerable and repairs feel urgent. Scammers can vanish as quickly as they arrive without structured roofing laws in Texas. Many homeowners are left with incomplete work, unpaid insurance claims, or serious structural issues. The Rise of Roofing Scams After Storms “Storm chasers” are not a myth. They are a real and persistent threat. These fraudulent contractors appear in neighborhoods shortly after a major weather event. They often operate door to door, offering “quick fixes” or “discounted repairs” that seem too good to pass up. Here’s how it often unfolds: A friendly contractor knocks on your door, saying they have extra materials from a job down the street. They offer to inspect your roof for free and claim they see major damage. They promise a free roof or say your deductible will be waived. They pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. They demand full or partial payment up front. Then, they disappear or perform minimal, substandard work. The emotional toll of these scams is massive. Victims often lose their entire insurance payout and are left with leaks, mold, or structural damage that goes unchecked until the next storm causes even more destruction. RCAT’s Safe Roofs Over Texas campaign was created in response to this exact problem. It is not just about education. It is about advocating for stronger residential roofing laws in Texas and giving homeowners the tools they need to make safe, informed decisions. Learn more about the initiative here: https://www.saferoofsovertexas.com/ What Is the Texas Roofing Deductible Law? One of the few legal safeguards in place for Texas homeowners is House Bill 2102, also known as the Texas roofing deductible law. Passed in 2019, this law prohibits contractors from waiving, absorbing, or covering your insurance deductible. What HB 2102 Prohibits: Paying your deductible for you Offering a rebate or credit to offset the deductible Assisting in any way to help you avoid paying the deductible These practices are now considered insurance fraud. Penalties for Contractors Who Break This Law: Up to 180 days in jail Fines of up to $2,000 Or both Why Waiving a Deductible Is a Total Scam in Disguise Unfortunately, many homeowners still believe that a contractor offering to waive their deductible is doing them a favor. The truth is, if a roofer says they'll “cover” your deductible, they have to find a way to make that money back somewhere else—and it's never in your favor. Here’s how these scams typically work: Using cheaper materials Instead of installing the shingle quality your insurance policy covers, they substitute with lower-grade products that reduce performance and lifespan. Cutting labor costs They may hire untrained laborers, rush the job, or skip important prep steps just to reduce hours on site. Falsifying paperwork Some contractors submit inflated invoices to your insurance company to make up the difference, putting you at risk of being part of insurance fraud. Skipping essential repairs They may avoid replacing underlayment, flashing, or decking that truly needs attention, compromising the integrity of the entire roof system. Walking away before finishing the job Once they’re paid, there’s no incentive to return. You may be left with incomplete work or unresolved leaks. The bottom line? If someone is cutting out your deductible, they’re cutting corners somewhere else. And those cuts could lead to future leaks, denied warranties, higher out-of-pocket costs, or even total roof failure. No reputable contractor puts their client in that position. What Types of Storm Damage Attract Roofing Scammers? Storm chasers often follow major weather events that leave behind visible roof damage. The more urgent the repairs, the more likely vulnerable homeowners are to be targeted. Here are the most common types of storm damage that attract these scammers: Hail Damage: Hail can bruise, crack, or knock granules off asphalt shingles. It may also dent metal roofs, gutters, and flashing. This is one of the top triggers for roofing insurance claims in Texas. Wind Damage: Strong winds can lift or tear off shingles, damage flashing, and expose the roof deck to water. Entire roof sections may be compromised, especially on older or poorly installed roofs. Fallen Debris: Trees, limbs, or flying debris can puncture the roof surface or cause localized structural damage. Tornado or Hurricane Impact: Severe storms with high-speed winds or flying debris often cause extensive and obvious damage, prompting immediate repair needs. Scammers know that after a storm, emotions run high and urgency takes over. That’s why they target neighborhoods where this kind of damage is common. Recognizing these vulnerabilities is the first step to protecting yourself from predatory contractors. How to Spot a Roofing Scam You do not need to be a construction expert to avoid getting scammed. You just need to know what to look for. Here are some of the most common red flags that indicate a contractor may not be legitimate: Goes door to door after a storm Offers to waive your deductible Demands full payment upfront Uses out-of-state plates or references Doesn’t provide a written contract Asks you to sign an incomplete or blank document Lacks general liability or workers’ comp insurance Can’t provide a physical business address in Texas These scammers are professionals, just not in roofing. They are professionals at manipulation. The best way to fight back is with knowledge and a cautious approach. RCAT encourages homeowners to report suspicious activity and use their consumer tools to verify contractors. You can contact RCAT or the Texas Attorney General’s Office to file a complaint. Reach out to us here: https://www.rcat.net/contact-us.html Best Practices for Hiring a Roofing Contractor in Texas Avoiding a scam is just the first step. To truly protect your home, you need to hire the right contractor, not just avoid the wrong one. Here are the best practices every Texas homeowner should follow: Get everything in writing. The contract should include scope of work, materials, payment terms, and timeline. Ask for local references. Call past clients in your area and verify the company has completed successful jobs nearby. Get multiple bids. Never go with the first price or contractor you meet. Request proof of insurance. Ask for documentation and call the insurance provider to verify coverage. Never pay in full before work begins. Reputable contractors work in stages. Payment should follow progress. Know your rights. In Texas, you have three business days to cancel a contract signed at your home. Most importantly, verify that the roofer is a member of an established organization like RCAT. That alone can filter out bad actors and increase your odds of a smooth, successful project. Search RCAT Licensed Contractors The Role of RCAT: Voluntary Licensing and Advocacy In the absence of state oversight, RCAT has stepped in to create its own licensing system. While this license is voluntary, it provides much-needed structure and accountability for contractors who want to demonstrate their commitment to doing things the right way. Unlike many professions in Texas that require licensing, roofing does not—so when a contractor chooses to go through RCAT’s licensing process, they’re doing it purely to prove their credibility. That means they’ve taken the time, effort, and expense to: Pass a thorough roofing knowledge exam Submit proof of insurance for both liability and workers’ compensation Agree to follow a professional code of ethics Maintain their credentials through ongoing good standing This level of dedication sends a powerful message: they care about the quality of their work, their reputation, and the well-being of their customers. RCAT is also working behind the scenes to push for fair and enforceable roofing laws in Texas, supporting both ethical contractors and the homeowners who depend on them. Until state regulation catches up, the RCAT license remains one of the most trustworthy signals of professionalism in the Texas roofing industry How Homeowners Can Take Action You do not need to be a policy expert to make a difference. One of the most powerful things you can do is help educate your neighbors and community about the risks of hiring unverified roofers and the importance of making informed decisions. Here’s how you can take action right now: Share this information with friends, neighbors, and local groups, especially after a major storm Talk to your HOA, neighborhood association, or church group about common roofing scams Encourage others to use trusted tools, like RCAT’s licensed contractor search Help dispel common myths, such as the legality of free roof offers Every conversation spreads awareness. Every shared resource helps someone avoid becoming a victim. When more Texans know the facts, fewer fall for the trap. Your voice and your vigilance can protect your entire neighborhood. Don’t Let a Storm Decide Your Future Understanding Texas roofing laws can protect you from losing thousands, or worse, putting your family at risk. In a state with no mandatory licensing, the smartest thing you can do is stay informed, stay cautious, and use trusted tools like RCAT’s contractor database. Remember, knowledge is power. It is what separates a wise homeowner from a vulnerable target. Use RCAT’s contractor search Share this blog with your community Support safer roofing practices in Texas Find a trusted, vetted roofer in your zipcode: https://web.rcat.net/search Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How do I report a roofing scam in Texas? Contact your local law enforcement, the Texas Attorney General’s office, and notify RCAT through their reporting tools. Can I cancel a roofing contract after signing it? Yes. In Texas, homeowners have three (3) business days to cancel a contract signed at their home or a temporary location. What is RCAT’s Licensed Roofing Contractor Program? It is a voluntary program where contractors meet specific standards including testing, insurance verification, and ethics compliance. Learn more here: https://www.rcat.net/licensing.html Where can I find a reputable roofer in Texas? Use RCAT’s online contractor search tool to find RCAT-licensed roofers who meet professional standards. What should I do if a roofer asks me to sign a contract before I’ve seen an estimate? Do not sign anything without reviewing a detailed, written estimate. A legitimate contractor will provide a scope of work, material list, timeline, and clear pricing before asking for your signature. Is a contractor required to have insurance to work on my home? While Texas does not require roofers to carry insurance, you should always ask for proof of general liability and workers’ compensation coverage. If they’re uninsured and an accident happens, you could be held responsible. Can a roofer start work before my insurance claim is finalized? It’s risky. Reputable contractors will typically wait until your claim is approved and paperwork is in place. Starting too early can lead to misaligned costs and complications with your insurer.
Storms move fast. But the damage they leave behind can last for years, especially when shady roofers step in. Across Texas, hail, hurricanes, and tornadoes are more than seasonal inconveniences.
They create an open door for opportunists: unqualified contractors who see desperate homeowners as easy targets.
That danger is magnified by the fact that Texas has no state-required licensing or registration for roofing contractors. Anyone can claim to be a roofer, and that lack of oversight puts homeowners at serious risk.
This blog will break down the essential facts about Texas roofing laws, including how to avoid scams, understand your rights, and make smart hiring decisions.
If you're a homeowner in Texas, these insights could save you thousands of dollars and help protect your home.
Texas leads the nation in severe weather events that impact homes, especially the roof.
From Gulf Coast hurricanes to Hill Country flooding, Texas faces regular disasters that cause immense property damage and, tragically, loss of life. In 2025, AccuWeather estimated the economic toll of the Hill Country floods at over $18 billion.
But even worse, these events often attract opportunists who exploit vulnerable homeowners in the aftermath.
However, unlike other trades in Texas, such as electricians, plumbers, or even barbers, roofers are not required to be licensed by the state. There is no standard test, no insurance verification, no registration, and no code of conduct enforced at the state level.
This creates a major gap in consumer protection. When laws do not require roofers to meet a baseline of professional accountability, homeowners have to rely entirely on their own judgment.
That is a dangerous situation in a high-pressure, post-storm environment when you are vulnerable and repairs feel urgent.
Scammers can vanish as quickly as they arrive without structured roofing laws in Texas. Many homeowners are left with incomplete work, unpaid insurance claims, or serious structural issues.
“Storm chasers” are not a myth. They are a real and persistent threat. These fraudulent contractors appear in neighborhoods shortly after a major weather event. They often operate door to door, offering “quick fixes” or “discounted repairs” that seem too good to pass up.
Here’s how it often unfolds:
The emotional toll of these scams is massive.
Victims often lose their entire insurance payout and are left with leaks, mold, or structural damage that goes unchecked until the next storm causes even more destruction.
RCAT’s Safe Roofs Over Texas campaign was created in response to this exact problem.
It is not just about education. It is about advocating for stronger residential roofing laws in Texas and giving homeowners the tools they need to make safe, informed decisions.
Learn more about the initiative here: https://www.saferoofsovertexas.com/
One of the few legal safeguards in place for Texas homeowners is House Bill 2102, also known as the Texas roofing deductible law.
Passed in 2019, this law prohibits contractors from waiving, absorbing, or covering your insurance deductible.
These practices are now considered insurance fraud.
Unfortunately, many homeowners still believe that a contractor offering to waive their deductible is doing them a favor.
The truth is, if a roofer says they'll “cover” your deductible, they have to find a way to make that money back somewhere else—and it's never in your favor.
Here’s how these scams typically work:
The bottom line?
If someone is cutting out your deductible, they’re cutting corners somewhere else. And those cuts could lead to future leaks, denied warranties, higher out-of-pocket costs, or even total roof failure. No reputable contractor puts their client in that position.
Storm chasers often follow major weather events that leave behind visible roof damage.
The more urgent the repairs, the more likely vulnerable homeowners are to be targeted.
Here are the most common types of storm damage that attract these scammers:
Scammers know that after a storm, emotions run high and urgency takes over.
That’s why they target neighborhoods where this kind of damage is common.
Recognizing these vulnerabilities is the first step to protecting yourself from predatory contractors.
You do not need to be a construction expert to avoid getting scammed. You just need to know what to look for. Here are some of the most common red flags that indicate a contractor may not be legitimate:
These scammers are professionals, just not in roofing. They are professionals at manipulation. The best way to fight back is with knowledge and a cautious approach.
RCAT encourages homeowners to report suspicious activity and use their consumer tools to verify contractors.
You can contact RCAT or the Texas Attorney General’s Office to file a complaint.
Reach out to us here: https://www.rcat.net/contact-us.html
Avoiding a scam is just the first step. To truly protect your home, you need to hire the right contractor, not just avoid the wrong one.
Here are the best practices every Texas homeowner should follow:
Most importantly, verify that the roofer is a member of an established organization like RCAT. That alone can filter out bad actors and increase your odds of a smooth, successful project.
Search RCAT Licensed Contractors
In the absence of state oversight, RCAT has stepped in to create its own licensing system.
While this license is voluntary, it provides much-needed structure and accountability for contractors who want to demonstrate their commitment to doing things the right way.
Unlike many professions in Texas that require licensing, roofing does not—so when a contractor chooses to go through RCAT’s licensing process, they’re doing it purely to prove their credibility.
That means they’ve taken the time, effort, and expense to:
This level of dedication sends a powerful message: they care about the quality of their work, their reputation, and the well-being of their customers.
RCAT is also working behind the scenes to push for fair and enforceable roofing laws in Texas, supporting both ethical contractors and the homeowners who depend on them.
Until state regulation catches up, the RCAT license remains one of the most trustworthy signals of professionalism in the Texas roofing industry
You do not need to be a policy expert to make a difference.
One of the most powerful things you can do is help educate your neighbors and community about the risks of hiring unverified roofers and the importance of making informed decisions.
Here’s how you can take action right now:
Every conversation spreads awareness. Every shared resource helps someone avoid becoming a victim.
When more Texans know the facts, fewer fall for the trap.
Your voice and your vigilance can protect your entire neighborhood.
Understanding Texas roofing laws can protect you from losing thousands, or worse, putting your family at risk.
In a state with no mandatory licensing, the smartest thing you can do is stay informed, stay cautious, and use trusted tools like RCAT’s contractor database.
Remember, knowledge is power. It is what separates a wise homeowner from a vulnerable target.
Use RCAT’s contractor search Share this blog with your community Support safer roofing practices in Texas
Find a trusted, vetted roofer in your zipcode: https://web.rcat.net/search
How do I report a roofing scam in Texas? Contact your local law enforcement, the Texas Attorney General’s office, and notify RCAT through their reporting tools.
Can I cancel a roofing contract after signing it? Yes. In Texas, homeowners have three (3) business days to cancel a contract signed at their home or a temporary location.
What is RCAT’s Licensed Roofing Contractor Program? It is a voluntary program where contractors meet specific standards including testing, insurance verification, and ethics compliance. Learn more here: https://www.rcat.net/licensing.html
Where can I find a reputable roofer in Texas? Use RCAT’s online contractor search tool to find RCAT-licensed roofers who meet professional standards.
What should I do if a roofer asks me to sign a contract before I’ve seen an estimate?
Do not sign anything without reviewing a detailed, written estimate. A legitimate contractor will provide a scope of work, material list, timeline, and clear pricing before asking for your signature.
Is a contractor required to have insurance to work on my home?
While Texas does not require roofers to carry insurance, you should always ask for proof of general liability and workers’ compensation coverage. If they’re uninsured and an accident happens, you could be held responsible.
Can a roofer start work before my insurance claim is finalized?
It’s risky. Reputable contractors will typically wait until your claim is approved and paperwork is in place. Starting too early can lead to misaligned costs and complications with your insurer.